Watch
/wɒtʃ/noun
To look at, observe, or monitor someone or something attentively.
Did you know?The word is closely connected to the ancient root behind “vigil,” linking watching with the ritual idea of staying awake through the night for protection or religious observance.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*weg-
“To be lively, active, or awake”
Proto-Germanic
Proto-Germanic
*wakjan
“To wake or remain awake”
Old English
Old English
wæccan
“To keep awake or be watchful”
Middle English
Middle English
wacchen
“To stay awake, keep guard, or observe”
14th Century
English
watch
“A period of guarding or the act of keeping watch”
Modern English
English
watch
“To look at, observe, or monitor attentively”